Top registered nursing (RN) programs in Minnesota

The registered nurse (RN) has a critical role in the healthcare system. RNs independently perform many healthcare activities, such as monitoring patients' conditions and administering medicine. Registered nurses also frequently take on administrative roles, supervising other nursing personnel like nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses.

RNs can pursue several distinct education paths. All culminate in the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Minnesota offers three types of prelicensure programs: two-year associate's degree (ADN), four-year bachelor's degree (BSN), and direct-entry master's degree (MSN) programs. The associate’s and bachelor’s degree tracks are most common; Minnesota is home to roughly 25 ADN programs and 20 prelicensure BSN programs. The latter have increased in popularity as employers place greater emphasis on baccalaureate education in hiring and promotion decisions. Career switchers with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree can enroll in the direct-entry MSN programs offered by Metropolitan State University in Saint Paul or University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.

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Job prospects are very rosy for RNs throughout Minnesota. Some active hirers in the state include Mayo Clinic and Fairview Health Services. Another appealing aspect of a registered nursing career is the annual median wage of $70,560. Top RNs in Minnesota can earn upwards of $80,000.

For those keen on pursuing careers as registered nurses, we've compiled below a list of the top ADN, BSN, and direct-entry MSN programs in Minnesota.